The Pillow Book of Sei Sh¯onagon, Translated [from the Japanese] and Edited by Ivan Morris Fun Activities

Create a List

Shonagon liked to make lists of things. Write your own list in the style of Shonagon's lists. You could make a list of hateful things, delightful things, poetic things, etc. Your list could be about anything, but it should follow Shonagon's style of writing in that she occasionally elaborated on certain items on the list.

History Report

Research the time period in which Shonagon lived. Write a research paper describing Japan at the time. Include information about the government, the culture, and any events of historical significance.

Costume Design

Shonagon described many different types of clothing in great detail. Choose an entry that describes an outfit in detail. Research the clothing of the time period and design a costume to fit Shonagon's description. You may create a color drawing of the outfit, but you will receive extra credit for sewing it!